The Matador performed well: solid and well-built, competitive with razors costing more money. It has a handle longer than normal and a scalloped safety bar a la Merkur and Edwin Jagger, though the head is thinner. I found it “middle of the road” aggressive-wise. My first shave was very good, though I did get a nick on my chin. I suspect that had to do more with the Polsilver than the Matador though.

It certainly wasn’t due to the lather. DR Harris’ Arlington shave soap is one of my favorites and an old school tallow soap. It’s lather is really exceptional for me, particularly because I have hard water.

India?

I’m told that the Matador comes from the same factory in India that makes the Cadet and the RazoRock Black Tie razors. If true I’m beginning to wonder if India will be the next manufacturing hub for traditional shaving gear (though perhaps for export only). There is still a lot of junk out there but this razor and Parker razors are competitive with other good razor brands, at a better price-point.

Quit Sabotaging Your Shave!

Hi, I'm Mark ("Mantic59"). I help people get better shaves. Join the thousands of others on Sharpologist's shaving directory and get my ebooks, resource guides, and special reports plus a weekly email with mini-tutorials, article summaries, and discounts. Opt out any time.

I also purchased a Matador. I got the Toro Mastiff Corto. I like how it feels in my hand and the weight of it. But what I have found is that it takes the comfort level out of my favorite blades. I also use a EJ89. What feels comfortable in the EJ89 (like 7 o’clock blacks or Silver Blues) feels harsh in the Matador. I’m still on the hunt for an appropriate blade.